Medal in Memory of the Patriotic War of 1812, circa late
1810s through
1830s.

Medal in Memory of the Patriotic War of 1812, circa late
1810s through
1830s.

In bronze, 23.8 mm diameter, 1.9 mm thick. Private maker.
This smaller
version was intended, at least initially, as an award to
female elders of
noble families; however an edict of Alexander I also
allowed
smaller
versions to be worn by any noblemen. Additional to private
issues, a small
quantity of medals in 24 mm size were manufactured at the
St. Petersburg mint. The 24 mm version is more rare than
the
"Cavalier's" versions that usually range in 20 to 21 mm and
were all privately commissioned.

Outstanding, excellent condition. The details of the rays,
the all-seeing eye and inscription are magnificently well
preserved. Some of the original black lacquer is still
clearly visible on the background. Comes with old St.
Vladimir ribbon folded in a bow and held together by a
strip
of clear tape for collector's display.

The Medal in Memory of the Patriotic War of 1812 was
established in February 1813, following the monumental
Russian victory over Napoleon. The dark bronze medal was
introduced a year later for civilian noblemen
and merchants who had either actively participated in the
war or contributed to the war effort. In 1816, an Imperial
decree authorized manufacture of the 24 mm version for
female recipients and allowed noblemen to wear smaller
versions at their discretion.